Joseph Rips SUMA For Not Discussing Native Issues

Joseph Rips SUMA For Not Discussing Native Issues

Tuesday, February 05, 2008 at 14:02

 

 

A prominent Native leader says he’s troubled that Aboriginal issues are not on the convention agenda of Saskatchewan’s urban leaders this week.

 

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Lawrence Joseph made the comments during a scathing speech at the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association convention in Regina yesterday.

 

Joseph says there’s a substance abuse crisis on reserves — an issue SUMA is not talking about at its meeting.

 

His comments follow the deaths last week of two children on the Yellow Quill First Nation who froze when they were taken outside by their father, who family members say was drunk at the time.

 

Joseph says the parents are responsible for what happened, but adds that all levels of government need to look at the symptoms of the tragedy.

 

The FSIN chief says cities and towns need to work with First Nations to tackle problems like drug and alcohol abuse.

 

Joseph says the convention isn’t addressing the social reality that plagues many communities.

 

SUMA president Allan Earle says Joseph’s criticisms are fair.

 

(courtesy of The Canadian Press)